Reelin’ In The Years

As you may know, I love music. Learning to play the guitar at the relatively early age of 13, I’m into music a lot like some guys are into sports. Oftentimes as I lose myself in the song, I’ll imagine myself on stage playing the guitar or singing (but never both- because I really can’t play and sing at the same time!)

The other day, I heard a classic from the legendary band Steely Dan. I guarantee you’ve heard this one a couple times for sure! The name of the song is “Reelin’ In The Years”, and it has some lyrics that really got me thinking.

Songs That Have Something To Say

After the musical intro, the first verse comes in and takes us on a journey:

“Your everlasting summer and you can see it fadin’ fast,

So you grab a piece of something that you think is gonna last,

Well you wouldn’t even know a diamond if you held it in your hand,

The things you think are precious I can’t understand.”

WOW! Ok, let’s take a trip down the rabbit hole and investigate these awesome lyrics!

Is Something Really Better Than Nothing?

“Your everlasting summer and you can see it fadin’ fast.”

When I hear this line, and weigh it against the lyrics that are to follow, I think of a person who is crossing into a later stage of life. Maybe they’re in their late 20’s or early to mid 30’s. They often start to think about time and how they’re not getting any younger.

When we’re young, it’s easy to think youth will last forever, and we unwittingly lose track of time. Then, as the ego would love for us to do, perhaps we begin comparing ourselves to others that may be “further along” in life.

This really speaks to me about the nature of what’s truly important in life and relationships. Some folks get so caught up in outer appearances or surface qualities that they miss the real deal.

A person who’s so focused (or distracted) by the wrapper, often isn’t ready when a real diamond comes along. Trust me- you want to be ready!

“The things you think are precious I can’t understand”.

This last verse shows me there is a huge division in what these two people consider valuable. Again, what some folks consider attractive or valuable, others seek to avoid because they have very different priorities.

The Bible has some wisdom in this department. Romans 12:2 encourages us by saying “don’t be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind”.

Stretch, Grow, Become!

Step One– become conscious of your time on the planet. We won’t be here forever and it’s wise to be mindful of our most precious resource: time.

Step two– make sure the things you’re reaching out for are God’s best. Check out the Bible and consult with people who have Godly wisdom.